NUBBY Synonyms: 29 Similar and Opposite Words

nubby

adjective

ˈnə-bē

Definition of nubby

as in nubbly

having small pieces or lumps spread throughout a nubby yarn that produces bumpy fabrics when woven

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

smooth

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of nubby Microfiber absorbs four times more moisture than cotton and the nubby texture grabs and holds onto soil until it is washed away. — Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 12 June 2026 Beyond batter and dough, nut flours lend delicate flavor and nubby texture to drinks such as a horchata, help thicken sauces, and make a creamy and decadent pastry layer. — The Washington Post, San Diego Union-Tribune, 11 Mar. 2026 The piece fell to her ankles in a soft, pale pink fabric with a nubby, plush surface and a structured collar. — Maggie Clancy, Footwear News, 3 Feb. 2026 Why else show nubby fleece trousers with a coordinating striped jacket, which nobody needs but would be a hoot to wear? — Rachel Tashjian, CNN Money, 26 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for nubby

Recent Examples of Synonyms for nubby

Adjective

Lifting the lid revealed a small tart topped with a tongue of Spanish sea urchin, resting on a nubbly bed of cancha nuts.

— Brock Keeling, Oc Register, 22 Sep. 2025

Definition of nubbly

Adjective

And the oversized Heavenly robes are thick enough to justify padding down to the pool deck without feeling underdressed.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 11 Nov. 2026
Five bedrooms and four bathrooms are spread throughout the tower, with colorful stripes bringing a playful contrast to the thick masonry walls.

— Tori Latham, Robb Report, 10 Nov. 2026

Definition of thick

Adjective

This slip-on style has a slim profile and a chunky, low heel that adds height without sacrificing comfort or walkability.

— Kate Donovan, Southern Living, 7 Nov. 2026
This fall, that means no skinny jeans, chunky dad sneakers, bags with logos, or all-black outfits.

— Valeriya Chupinina, Travel + Leisure, 7 Nov. 2026

Definition of chunky

Adjective

Look for signs of a bug infestation (like weevils or worms), a clumpy texture due to moisture, or a change in color (like a gray or yellow tone).

— Libby Monteith Minor, Southern Living, 1 Nov. 2026
The even mixing of the isotopes suggests that it was formed from fine dust grains rather than clumpy, coarser material.

— Keith Cooper, Space.com, 27 Sep. 2026

Definition of clumpy

Browse Nearby Words

nubbly

nubby

nubile

See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

Style

“Nubby.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/nubby. Accessed 14 Nov. 2026.

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Synonyms of nubby

adjective

Example Sentences

Browse Nearby Words

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